Coco Gauff Wanted to Play Aryna Sabalenka in Rome for One Reason — But It Didn’t Happen

Coco Gauff had one very specific reason for wanting a showdown with Aryna Sabalenka in Rome — and no, it wasn’t just about revenge or ranking points. The 20-year-old American was eyeing a marquee matchup to measure herself against one of the biggest hitters in the game on clay. Gauff, who has steadily evolved into a top-tier contender on all surfaces, was itching to test her heavy topspin and improved serve against Sabalenka’s raw power — a clash of styles that had blockbuster written all over it.

But tennis, as always, had other plans.

Sabalenka’s surprise early exit from the tournament robbed fans — and Gauff — of what could’ve been a Rome classic. And while Coco has kept it classy in interviews, she didn’t hide her disappointment. “I wanted that matchup,” she said with a wry smile. “Not just for the fans, but for me. I like to see where I stand against the best.”

The Rome draw had been building towards that collision course, and when Sabalenka’s name vanished from it, the buzz took a dip. Gauff still advanced, still dazzled, and still remains a favourite to go deep. But a victory over the world No. 2 would’ve been a serious statement just weeks out from Roland Garros.

Instead, it’s a ‘what could’ve been’ scenario — but make no mistake, Coco’s ready for anyone. Sabalenka may have dodged her in Rome, but Paris is just around the corner.